Wimmera emergency services get boosts for the summer

HAPPY: Wonwondah Fire Brigade president Greg Speirs was happy to hear his brigade received $53,381 in grant money to build a satellite shed. Picture: ELIJAH MACCHIA

WIMMERA emergency service volunteers have benefited from grant announcements.

Eleven emergency service groups received grants – including Horsham Fire Brigade who received $11,343 to go toward Ready Racks and Wonwondah Fire Brigade who received $53,381 to go towards a satellite shed in McKenzie Creek.

Wonwondah brigade president Greg Speirs said the shed at McKenzie Creek will ideally cut 10 minutes of travel time to places such as Haven. The brigade will house one of it two tankers at the shed.

“After Black Saturday we realised we needed to get some tankers closer (to Haven),” he said.

The shed was planned for the McKenzie Creek School site but Mr Speirs said after a change in CFA regulations, it may take longer than expected.

The series of grants were announced by the Andrews Government part of the 2017-18 Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program.

Services to receive grant

Warracknabeal State Emergency Service: $25,680 towards a new meeting room and amenities.

Areegra CFA: $1780 for a trailer and equipment.

Stawell State Emergency Service: $65,362 towards a new field command vehicle.

Lawloit CFA: $113,500 towards an ultra light tanker.

Noradjuha CFA: $18,647 towards a new shed.

Crymelon CFA: $1320 towards the purchase of stackable chairs.

Dunmunkle State Emergency Service: $6916 to upgrade an entrance and landscaping.